Overflow system for a tank and a method of affixing the overflow system to the tank

ABSTRACT

An overflow system is disclosed for use with a tank having a side wall. The overflow system includes an overflow device having a front wall, a back wall, a first sidewall and a second sidewall all secured to a bottom wall and extending upward therefrom to create a chamber having an open top. The front wall, back wall and first and second sidewalls have a plurality of slots formed therethrough. The overflow device is positioned in the tank such that a portion of the plurality of slots is disposed below the fluid line of the tank so as to receive fluid from the tank into the chamber. The bottom wall has an enlarged aperture formed therethrough. The overflow system also includes a first aperture formed through the sidewall of the tank. The first aperture is positioned below the bottom wall of the overflow device. An attachment mechanism attaches the bottom wall of the overflow device to an inside surface of the sidewall of the tank. The attachment means passes through the first aperture.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to an overflow system for a tank and a method ofaffixing the overflow system to the tank.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Today, there are many different applications were it is necessary todrain fluid from a tank for various purposes. In many commercial,industrial, municipal and residential applications and processes, afluid, either a liquid or a gas, needs to be drained. The kind of fluidcan vary. The fluid can be but is not limited to: fresh water, saltwater, brine, an aqueous mixture, a chemical, a food mixture, a liquidmixture, milk, a juice, a soft drink, an alcohol, etc. Manymunicipalities have water treatment plants that collect and treatdrinking water, storm water, waste streams, etc. Many homes and somesmall businesses have a fresh water and/or a salt water aquarium.Aquariums are manufactured in various sizes from 10 gallons to 1,500gallons or more. Regardless of the size of the aquarium, all aquariumsneed the water filtered on a continuous basis. Some aquariums,especially aquariums that can hold a large quantity of fluid,continuously drain off some of the water and route it to a sump systemwhere it is filtered and then returned to the aquarium.

In some of the above mentioned applications and processes, a portion ofthe fluid is removed from a tank or an aquarium and is routed to anothertank where it is further processed. Sometimes the fluid is filtered. Afluid can be filtered to remove foreign particles, debris and/or waste.The clean, filtered fluid can then be reintroduced back into theoriginal tank or aquarium. In other processes, it may be necessary todrain excess fluid from a tank in order to prevent a flood.

A home aquarium is a good example of an application where water may becontinuously drained and routed to a filtering system. The filteringsystem can be hidden from view. Water in the fish aquarium will becomestainted with food particles, algae growth, fish waste, etc. over time. Aportion of this water is skimmed or drained off from the upper surfaceof the water in the aquarium and is routed to a filtering system whichis usually situated in a cabinet located below the aquarium or on lowerlevel, such as in the basement. The filtering system can vary in designand construction. Such aquariums need an overflow system which is easyto install and is desirably out of sight so as not to interfere with theaesthetics of the aquarium.

Now, an overflow system for a tank has been invented. The overflowsystem is especially useful for a fish aquarium. The overflow system issized to fit between a lid on the aquarium and a bottom edge of theaquarium frame so as to be out of sight of the people looking at thefish in the aquarium.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Briefly, this invention relates to an overflow system for use with atank having a side wall. The overflow system includes an overflow devicehaving a front wall, a back wall, a first sidewall and a secondsidewall. All four walls are secured to a bottom wall and extend upwardtherefrom to create a chamber having an open top. The front wall, theback wall and the first and second sidewalls have a plurality of slotsformed therethrough. The overflow device is positioned in the tank suchthat a portion of the plurality of slots is disposed below the fluidline of the tank so as to receive fluid from the tank into the chamber.The bottom wall has an enlarged aperture formed therethrough. Theoverflow system also includes a top screen removably attached to theoverflow device which covers the open top. The top screen has aplurality of openings formed therethrough. The overflow system furtherincludes a first aperture formed through the sidewall of the tank. Thefirst aperture is positioned below the bottom wall of the overflowdevice. An attachment mechanism attaches the enlarged aperture formed inthe bottom wall of the overflow device to the first aperture formed inthe sidewall of the tank. The attachment mechanism also passes throughthe first aperture. Lastly, the overflow system includes a conduit whichconnects the attachment mechanism to a second tank so that fluid can bedrained to the second tank.

In a second embodiment, the overflow system is designed for use with anaquarium tank. The aquarium tank has an open top with a top edge and atleast one sidewall. A frame extends downward from the top edge along theat least one sidewall and has a bottom edge. A lid closes off the opentop of the aquarium tank. The overflow system includes an overflowdevice having a front wall, a back wall, a first sidewall and a secondsidewall. All four walls are secured to a bottom wall and extend upwardtherefrom to create a chamber having an open top. The front wall, theback wall and the first and second sidewalls have a plurality of slotsformed therethrough. The overflow device is positioned in the aquariumtank between the lid and the bottom edge of the frame such that aportion of the plurality of slots are disposed below the water line ofthe aquarium tank so as to receive water from the aquarium tank into thechamber. The bottom wall has an enlarged aperture formed therethrough.The overflow system also includes a top screen removably attached to theoverflow device which covers the open top. The top screen has aplurality of openings formed therethrough. The overflow system furtherincludes a first aperture formed through the sidewall of the aquariumtank. The first aperture is positioned below the bottom wall of theoverflow device, An attachment mechanism attaches the enlarged apertureformed in the bottom wall of the overflow device to the first apertureformed in the sidewall of the aquarium tank. The attachment mechanismalso passes through the first aperture. Lastly, the overflow systemincludes a conduit which connects the attachment mechanism to a secondtank so that water can be drained from the aquarium tank to the secondtank.

A method of affixing an overflow system to an aquarium tank is alsotaught The aquarium tank has an open top with a top edge, at least onesidewall, a frame extending downward from the top edge along the atleast one sidewall and has a bottom edge. A lid closes off the open topof the aquarium tank. The method includes the steps of positioning anoverflow device in the aquarium tank between the lid and the bottom edgeof the frame. The overflow device has a front wall, a back wall, a firstsidewall and a second sidewall. All four walls are secured to a bottomwall and extend upward therefrom to create a chamber having an open top.The front wall, the back wall and the first and second sidewalls have aplurality of slots formed therethrough. A portion of the plurality ofslots is disposed below the water line of the aquarium tank so as toreceive water from the aquarium tank into the chamber. The bottom wallhas an enlarged aperture formed therethrough. The method also includesremovably attaching a top screen to the overflow device which covers theopen top. The top screen has a plurality of openings formedtherethrough. The method further includes forming a first aperturethrough the sidewall of the aquarium tank. The first aperture ispositioned below the bottom wall of the overflow device. An attachmentmechanism is then used to attach enlarged aperture formed in the bottomwall of the overflow device to the first aperture formed in the sidewallof the aquarium tank. The attachment mechanism also passes through thefirst aperture. Lastly, the method includes using a conduit to connectthe attachment mechanism to a second tank such that water can be drainedfrom the aquarium tank to the second tank.

The general object of this invention is to provide an overflow systemfor use with a tank having a sidewall and a method of affixing theoverflow system to the tank. A more specific object of this invention isto provide an overflow system for an aquarium tank.

Another object of this invention is to provide an overflow system for anaquarium tank which can be injection molded.

A further object of this invention is to provide an overflow system foran aquarium tank which is out of sight.

Still another object of this invention is to provide an overflow systemfor an aquarium tank which is easy to install.

Still further, an object of this invention is to provide an overflowsystem for an aquarium tank which is relatively inexpensive.

Other objects and advantages of the present invention will become moreapparent to those skilled in the art in view of the followingdescription and the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an aquarium tank having an overflowsystem.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the aquarium tank shown in FIG. 1including a lid.

FIG. 3 is an exploded side view of the overflow system.

FIG. 4 is an end view of the nut shown in FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the overflow device secured to a firstaperture formed in the sidewall of an aquarium tank.

FIG. 6 is a partially exploded view showing the top screen removablyattached by screws to the overflow device.

FIG. 7 is a side view of the overflow device positioned in an aquariumtank between the lid and the bottom edge of the frame.

FIG. 8 is a top view of the overflow device aligned perpendicular to thesidewall of the aquarium tank.

FIG. 9 is a side view of the overflow device showing a plurality offirst and second tapered slots having different height dimensions.

FIG. 10 is an enlarged side view of a portion of the overflow deviceshown in FIG. 9 depicting the plurality of tapered slots.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing the overflow device positioned 90°to the left of center.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing the overflow device positioned 45°to the left of center,

FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing the overflow device centeredrelative to the sidewall of the aquarium tank.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing the overflow device positioned 45°to the right of center.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing the overflow device positioned 90°to the right of center.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring to FIG. 1, a tank 10 is shown which is capable of holding aquantity of fluid 12. The tank 10 can vary in size, shape andconfiguration. The fluid 12 can vary and can be almost any liquid orgas. By “fluid” it is meant a continuous amorphous substance whosemolecules move freely past one another and that assumes the shape of itscontainer: a liquid or a gas. The fluid 12 can be but is not limited to:fresh water, salt water, brine, an aqueous mixture, a chemical, a foodmixture, a liquid mixture, a gas, milk, a juice, a soft drink, analcohol, etc. By “brine” it is meant water saturated with or containinglarge amounts of a salt, especially sodium chloride; the water of a seaor an ocean.

The tank 10 can be used in various commercial, industrial, municipal andresidential applications and processes. The tank 10 can be used forvarious purposes. For example, the tank 10 could be a holding tank forrain water, it could be holding vessel for making a liquid product, itcould be a waste treatment container, it could be a fish aquarium usedto house one or more kinds of fish or some other aquatic animal, plant,coral, etc. By “coral” it is meant a rocklike deposit consisting of thecalcareous skeletons secreted by various anthozoans and oftenaccumulating to form reefs or islands in warm seas.

For simplicity, this invention will be explained with the tank 10 beingan aquarium. By “aquarium” it is meant a water-filled enclosure in whichliving fish or other aquatic animals and/or plants are kept. Aquariums,sometimes referred to as aquarium tanks, are commercially sold invarious sizes and shapes. Aquariums can hold from 10 gallons of water upto 1,500 gallons or more. The water can be fresh water or salt water.

Still referring to FIG. 1, the aquarium tank 10 is depicted as arectangular shaped container capable of holding a quantity of fluid 12.The fluid 12 establishes a fluid (water) line 14 within the aquariumtank 10. The fluid (water) line 14 is the upper surface of fluid (water)in the aquarium tank 10. The aquarium tank 10 can be formed from variousmaterials. Glass is the preferred material from which to construct theaquarium tank 10. However, other materials can also be used especiallywhen the tank 10 is used for some other type of commercial or industrialapplication. Such other materials can include but are not limited to: anacrylic, a plastic, a thermoplastic, metal or a metal alloy, steel or asteel alloy, stainless steel, galvanized steel, aluminum, tin, copper, acomposite, etc.

The aquarium tank 10 can be an integral member. By “integral” it ismeant a complete unit, a whole. The aquarium tank 10 can be constructedin any manner known to those skilled in the art. For example, theaquarium tank 10 can be assembled from individual pieces of glass. Thevarious pieces of glass can be adhesively secured together. In addition,a frame can be used to add stability to the glass.

The aquarium tank 10 can be formed from clear glass. The glass can varyin thickness. The thickness of the glass can range from about 0.125inches up to about 1 inch. Desirably, the thickness of the glass is frombetween about 0.25 inches to about 0.75 inchers. More desirably, theglass has a thickness of about 0.5 inches. The aquarium tank 10 includesa bottom 16 and one or more sidewalls 18 which are secured to the bottom16. Four sidewalls 18, 18, 18 and 18 are depicted in FIG. 1. However, ifthe aquarium tank 10 had a cylindrical shape, it would have a singlesidewall 18. The aquarium tank 10 has an open top 20 surrounded by a topedge 22. The aquarium tank 10 also has a frame 24 which can includeseveral members secured together. The frame 24 provides support for thesidewalls 18, 18, 18 and 18 of the aquarium tank 10. The frame 24 can beformed on the inside or outside of the aquarium tank 10. The frame 24can be constructed from various materials. Desirably, the frame 24 is amarine grade anodized aluminum frame. The anodized frame 24 creates ahardened surface that will not rust, corrode or oxidize. The frame 24can also be formed from plastic.

The frame 24 includes a horizontal member 26 which is positionedadjacent to the top edge 22 of the aquarium tank 10. The horizontalmember 26 extends downward along a portion of one of the sidewalls 18,18, 18 and 18. The horizontal member 26 also has a bottom edge 28, Thehorizontal member 26 has a height h measured perpendicular to the bottomedge 28. The height h of the horizontal member 26 can vary. The height hof the horizontal member 26 can be about 3 inches or less. Desirably,the height h of the horizontal member 26 is less than about 2.5 inches.More desirably, the height h of the horizontal member 26 is less thanabout 2 inches. Even more desirably, the height h of the horizontalmember 26 is less than about 1.75 inches. Most desirably, the height hof the horizontal member 26 is less than about 1.5 inches. Thehorizontal member 26 hides from site any device located within theheight h of the horizontal member 26. Therefore, if a person is viewingthe fish in the aquarium tank 10, any device located above the bottomedge 28 of the horizontal member 26 would be out of site.

Referring now to FIG. 2, the aquarium tank 10 is shown having a lid 30which closes off the open top 20 of the aquarium tank 10. The lid 30 canoptionally include a light (not shown) which can illuminate the aquariumtank 10. The light can be turned on during the day and/or the night. Thelid 30 functions to limit or prevent evaporation of water from theaquarium tank 10. The lid 30 also functions to limit entry or exit intoor out of the aquarium tank 10. This is beneficial in keeping the fishin the aquarium tank 10 and preventing foreign objects from entering theaquarium tank 10, The lid 30 can optionally include a movable member 32which can be joined to the remainder of the lid 30 by one or more hinges34. A pair of hinges 34, 34 is shown in FIG. 2. The movable member 32can pivot on the pair of hinges 34, 34. The movable member 32 mayoptionally include a handle 36. The handle 36 provides a convenient wayof moving the movable member 32 from a closed position to an openposition. With the movable member 32 in its open position, additionalfish, fish food, extra water, rocks, gravel, etc, can be added to theaquarium tank 10. Likewise, one can also remove fish or other items fromthe aquarium tank 10 when the movable member 32 is in its open position.

Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 3, an overflow system 38 is shown which canbe used with the aquarium tank 10. The overflow system 38 regulates theamount of fluid (water) 12 allowed to exit the aquarium tank 10. Theamount of fluid (water) 12 introduced into the aquarium tank 10 and theamount of fluid (water) 12 withdrawn from the aquarium tank 10 willestablish a flow rate for the overflow system 38, The overflow system 38can handle various flow rates. For example, the overflow system 38 canbe designed to handle a flow rate of up to 2,500 gallons per hour.

The overflow system 38 includes an overflow device 40 that can vary insize, shape and configuration. The overflow device 40 is shown as havingan elongated, rectangular configuration. However, any geometricalconfiguration can be used including a semi-tubular shape. The overflowdevice 40 can be constructed from various materials and can be formedusing various methods known to those skilled in the art. Desirably, theoverflow device 40 is formed from a plastic, a thermoplastic or acomposite material since these materials are relatively easy to mold andwill not rust or corrode. The overflow device 40 can be injectionmolded. Injection molding is a very economical way to construct theoverflow device 40.

The overflow device 40 is positioned so the fluid (water) line 14 in theaquarium tank 10 is located above the bottom edge 28 of the horizontalmember 26 of the frame 24. In this position, one will not see anunsightly fluid (water) line 14 as water evaporates from the aquariumtank 10 yet the fluid (water) line 14 will be below the lid 30 soexcessive evaporation does not occur.

Referring now to FIGS. 3 and 5-10, the overflow device 40 has a frontwall 42, a back wall 44, a first sidewall 46 and a second sidewall 48.The walls 42, 44 and 46 can be linear or arcuate in shape. All fourwalls 42, 44, 46 and 48 are secured to a bottom wall 50. The front wall42, the back wall 44 and the first and second sidewalls, 46 and 48respectively, extend upward from the bottom wall 50 to create a chamber52 having an open top 54. Each of the front wall 42, the back wall 44and the first and second sidewalls, 46 and 48 respectively, have aplurality of slots 56 formed therethrough. By “slot” it is meant anarrow opening; slit. Each of the plurality of slots 56 can be taperedso as to lessen or minimize the risk of becoming clogged with debris.The taper can be a V-shaped configuration which is wider at the top. Ifone wished to shape the plurality of slots 56 to have parallel sides,this is also possible, but slots with parallel sides are more likely tobecome clogged than tapered slots 56.

The unique slot design lets larger and larger particles pass through theplurality of slots 56 as the flow rate into the aquarium tank 10increases or as the lower portions of the plurality of slots 56 becomeclogged with particles. The lower portion of each of the plurality ofslots 56 is small enough to prevent even small food pellets from makingtheir way through the overflow device 40. However, if particulates buildup, eventually the openings of the plurality of slots 56 get wider. Thismeans that as the water level rises and moves vertically up the heightof the overflow device 40, more fluid (water) 12 can exit the aquariumtank 10. This is an automatic built in safeguard against clogging. Inthe event that a major amount of debris would clog all of the pluralityof slots 56, the open top 54 of the overflow device 40 has much largeropenings that would allow the larger debris and a lot of fluid (water)12 to flow into the overflow device 40. However, the open top 54 of theoverflow device 40 can optionally includes a top screen 66 that wouldnot let debris, snails or fish through that are large enough to create aclog further downstream in the overflow system 38.

The plurality of tapered slots 56 automatically allows for anexponential amount of additional skimming capacity as the flow rate intothe aquarium tank 10 increases. A lower flow rate means smaller, finerstreams of water flowing through the plurality of tapered slots 56 intothe overflow device 40. Higher flow rates make exponentially larger,higher volumes of fluid (water) 12 flowing into the overflow device 40.This means the overflow device 40 will optimize the most efficientamount of aeration and provide for a quiet flow automatically, even whenthere are drastically different flow levels into the aquarium tank 10.

Referring again to FIG. 1, the overflow device 40 is shown beingpositioned in the aquarium tank 10 with the back wall 44 alignedparallel to an inside surface 64 of one of the four sidewalls 18, 18, 18and 18. However, the orientation of the overflow device 40 can beadjusted, as will be explained later.

Referring again to FIGS. 9 and 10, the overflow device 40 is positionedwithin the aquarium tank 10 so that a portion of the plurality of slots56 is disposed below the fluid (water) line 14. This position allowsfluid (water) 12 from the aquarium tank 10 to flow into the chamber 52.The chamber 52 receives the fluid (water) 12 from the aquarium tank 10.The overflow device 40 also has an enlarged aperture 58 formed throughthe bottom wall 50. The enlarged aperture 58 has a diameter d. Thediameter d can vary in size. Desirably, the diameter d of the enlargedaperture 58 is about 1 inch or more. More desirably, the diameter d ofthe enlarged aperture 58 is about 1.25 inches or more. Even moredesirably, the diameter d of the enlarged aperture 58 is about 1.5inches or more. For larger aquariums, the diameter d of the enlargedaperture 58 can be about 2 inches. The diameter d of the enlargedaperture 58 can even be 3 inches or more.

Referring again to FIGS. 3, 9 and 10, one can clearly see that theplurality of slots 56 include a first set of slots 60 having a height h₁and a second set of slots 62 having a smaller height h₂. Desirably, theheight h₁ of each of the first slots 60 is about 0.5 inches or more.More desirably, the height h₁ of each of the first slots 60 is about 0.6inches or more. Even more desirably, the height h₁ of each of the firstslots 60 is about 0.75 inches. The height h₂ of each of the second slots62 is about 0.50 inches or less. Desirably, the height h₂ of each of thesecond slots 62 is about ⅓ less than the height h₁ of each of the firstslots 60.

Each of the first and second sets of slots, 60 and 62 respectively, aretapered to have an approximately V-shape profile. The tapered profilenarrows from a wide dimension, located at the open top 54 of theoverflow device 40, to a narrow dimension, located down and away fromthe open top 54 of the overflow device 40. Each of the first and secondsets of slots, 60 and 62 respectively, has a maximum width, w₁ and w₂respectively, which occurs adjacent to the open top 54 of the overflowdevice 40. Each of the first and second sets of slots, 60 and 62respectively, taper downward to a narrow dimension as one approaches thebottom of each of the first and second sets of slots, 60 and 62respectively. The first and second sets of slots, 60 and 62respectively, are similar in appearance except that each of the firstset of slots 60 has a greater height h₁ and therefore have a narroweropening adjacent to the bottom of each taper. As mentioned above, thetapered design minimizes the chance that the plurality of slats 56 willbecome clogged with debris for as the fluid (water) level in theaquarium tank 10 rises, each taper creates a larger opening for thefluid (water) to flow through.

It should be understood that other geometrical shapes for the first andsecond sets of slots, 60 and 62, could also be utilized.

Each of the plurality of slots 56 taper downward from the open top 54 ofthe overflow device 40. This means that the width w₁ and w₂ of the firstand second sets of slots, 60 and 62 respectively, constantly variesalong its height h₁ or h₂. At the open top 54 of the overflow device 40,the width w₁ is equal to the width w₂.

Still referring to FIGS. 3, 9 and 10, the plurality of slots 56 formedthrough each of the first and second sidewalls, 46 and 48 respectively,includes a plurality of a first set of slots 60 and a plurality of asecond set of slots 62, The number of slots 56 present in each of thefirst and second sidewalls, 46 and 48 respectively, can vary. Typically,there are five (5) or more of the first and second slots, 60 and 62respectively, per inch. Desirably, there are six (6) or more of thefirst and second slots, 60 and 62 respectively, per inch. As clearlyshown in FIG. 3, the first set of slots 60 are located closer to thefront wall 42 and the second set of slots 62 are located closer to theback well 44. The reason for this is that the enlarged aperture 58 isaligned closer to the back wall 44. All the fluid (water) 12 that entersthe chamber 52 has to exit through the enlarged aperture 58. By formingthe shorter, second set of slots 62 adjacent to the enlarged aperture58, one will be able to better control the direction of flow of fluid(water) 12 through the chamber 52. If an increase flow rate is needed,the fluid (water) 12 entering through the second set of slots 62 willcascade downward close to the enlarged aperture 58 and will exit thechamber 52 almost immediately.

As mentioned above, the number of first and second slots, 60 and 62respectively, formed in each of the first and second sidewalls, 46 and48 respectively, can vary. Usually, there is a greater number of firstslots 60 than second slots 62. However, this arrangement can be changed,if desired. Desirably, the first set of slots 60 extend over a greaterdistance of each of the first and second sidewalls, 46 and 48respectively. For example, for first and second sidewalls, 46 and 48respectively, each having a length of about 8 inches, the first set ofslots 60 can extend along about half or 4 inches of the 8 inch length,while the second set of slots 62 extend along about 0.375 or 3 inches ofthe 8 inch length. Again, this set up can be changed, if desired. It isalso advantageous for the first and second sets of slots, 60 and 62respectively, to form a continuous pattern without any breaks orinterruptions. However, one could certainly, provide a gap or breakbetween the first and second sets of slots, 60 and 62 respectively, ifone desired to do so. Likewise, one could provide a space or gap betweenthe first set of slots 60 and/or between the second set of slots 62. Asdepicted in FIG. 9, there are twenty-six (26) of the first set of slots60 and nineteen (19) of the second set of slots 62 formed in each of thefirst and second sidewall, 46 and 48 respectively, and each of the firstand second sidewalls, 46 and 48 respectively, has a length of about 8inches.

The presence of the first and second sets of slots, 60 and 62respectively, create a stepped profile in each of the first and secondsidewalls, 46 and 48 respectively. This stepped profile is forfunctional purposes and not for aesthetics. The overflow device 40 ispositioned in the aquarium tank 10 such that the first set of slots 60are below the fluid (water) line 14 while the second set of slots 62 arelocated above the fluid (water) line 14. This means that as the fluid(water) 12 level in the aquarium tank 10 rises, additional slots 62 willbecome available to allow the fluid (water) 12 to exit the aquarium tank10. Applicant is unaware of anyone else in the industry that uses such aunique stepped profile.

Referring again to FIG. 6, the front wall 42 contains a plurality of thefirst set of slots 60. Each of the first set of slots 62 has the largerheight h₁ dimension. The front wall 42 is shown having a width of about2.5 inches. For this width, about 1.75 inches contains the first set ofslots 60. Desirably, there are 8 or more first slots 60 formed in thefront wall 42. More desirably, there are 10 or more first slots 60formed in the front wall 42. Even more desirably, there are 11 or morefirst slots 60 formed in the front wall 42. The back wall 44 contains aplurality of the second set of slots 62. Each of the second set of slots62 has the smaller height h₂ dimension. The back wall 44 is shown havinga width of about 2.5 inches. For this width, about 1.75 inches containsthe second set of slots 62. Desirably, there are 8 or more second slots62 formed in the back wall 44. More desirably, there are 10 or moresecond slots 62 formed in the back wall 44. Even more desirably, thereare 11 or more second slots 62 formed in the back wall 44. The back wall44 contains the shorter second set of slots 62 for the same reason thefirst and second sidewalls, 46 and 48 respectively, contains the shortersecond set of slots 62, that being that the back wall 44 is locatedclose to the enlarged aperture 58.

Referring again to FIG. 3, one can see that the overflow device 40 has anarrow profile with a height h₃. The height h₃ can vary. Desirably, theheight h₃ of the overflow device 40 is about 1.75 inches or less. Moredesirably, the height h₃ of the overflow device 40 is about 1.6 inchesor less. Even more desirably, the height h₃ of the overflow device 40 isabout 1.5 inches or less. Most desirably, the height h₃ of the overflowdevice 40 is about 1.25 inches. This low or narrow profile allows theoverflow device 40 to be positioned in the aquarium tank 10 while beingwithin the height h of the horizontal member 26. The horizontal member26 will block the overflow device 40 from site. This means that a personlooking at the aquarium tank 10 will not be able to see the overflowdevice 40. This is a unique feature of this overflow system 38 in thatit keeps the unsightly overflow device 40 out of site of people lookingat the aquarium tank 10. However, in order to accomplish this, theoverflow device 40 must have a narrow profile.

Referring again to FIGS. 3, 5 and 6, the overflow system 38 optionallyincludes a top screen 66 which is removably attached to the open top 54of the overflow device 40. The top screen 66 is attached so that it canbe removed and cleaned if debris builds up on it. The top screen 66 canbe formed from the same material used to construct the overflow device40 or from a different material. Desirably, the top screen 66 is formedfrom a plastic or a thermoplastic material which is easy to mold. Thetop screen 66 could also be formed from a composite material. In FIG. 6,the top screen 66 is shown having four screw holes 68, 68, 68 and 68formed therethrough. Each of the four screw holes 68, 68, 68 and 68 islocated at a corner of the top screen 66. A screw 70 is designed to passthrough each of the four screw holes 68, 68, 68 and 68 and secure thetop screen 66 to the overflow device 40, see FIG. 6. Other ways ofsecuring the top screen 66 to the overflow device 40 can also beutilized. Such other ways are well known to those skilled in the art.

Referring again to FIGS. 5 and 6, the top screen 66 has a plurality ofopenings formed therethrough. The plurality of openings 72 can all be ofthe same size or one or more can differ in size from the remainingapertures 72. Desirably, at least one of the plurality of openings 72has a smaller surface area than at least one other of the plurality ofopenings 72 formed in the top screen 66. More desirably, all of theplurality of openings 72 formed through the top screen 66 are not of thesame size. The number of openings 72 can vary. The size and shape ofeach of the plurality of openings 72 can also vary. Circular, square orrectangular openings are the easiest to form. If square or rectangularshaped openings 72 are used, it is easier to mold them with roundedcorners versus square corners.

As best depicted in FIG. 6, each of the plurality of openings 72 isrectangular in shape with rounded corners. At a minimum, each of theopenings 72 should be about 0.5 inches long and about 0.15 inches wide.Desirably, forty (40) or more openings 72 are formed in the top screen66. More desirably, fifty (50) or more openings are formed in the topscreen 66. Even more desirably, sixty (60) or more openings 72 areformed in the top screen 66. Each of the plurality of openings 72 formedin the top screen 66 has a larger surface area than any one of theplurality of slots 56. This means that each of the plurality of openings72 forms a larger opening than any of the plurality of slots 56. This isimportant in order to prevent the aquarium tank 10 from overflowing incase of a malfunction. If fluid (water) 12 can't be withdrawn throughthe plurality of slots 56 fast enough to compensate for the incomingfluid into the aquarium tank 10, the fluid (water) 12 will flow over thefront wall 42, the back wall 44, and over the first and secondsidewalls, 46 and 48 respectively, and then flow through the pluralityof openings 72 formed in the top screen 66. Since the plurality ofopenings 72 are larger in size than the slots 56, the fluid (water) 12will be able to flow out of the aquarium tank 10 at a faster flow rate.This should avoid a flood from occurring. The plurality of openings 72formed in the top screen 66 serve as the last resort for funneling fluid(water) 12 into the chamber 52 of the overflow device 40. Should debrisclog the first and second sets of slots, 60 and 62 respectively, thefluid (water) 12 will flow through the top screen 66 into the chamber 52and out through the enlarged aperture 58.

It should be noted that many overflow systems, like that taught in U.S.Patent Publication 200910250121 do not utilize a top screen 66. However,it has been found that by optionally employing the top screen 66, onecan prevent larger size debris from entering the chamber 52 andsubsequently finding their way through the enlarged aperture 58. If thisoccurs, they can cause major problems downstream of the overflow device40. One does not want large size debris, fish, snails, or other largeforeign objects from entering the chamber 52 of the overflow device 40.

Referring again to FIG. 3, the overflow system 38 further includes afirst aperture 74 formed through one of the sidewalls 18 of the aquariumtank 10. The configuration of the first aperture 74 can vary butgenerally it is circular in shape. The first aperture 74 is positionedbelow the bottom wall 50 of the overflow device 40. Desirably, thebottom wall 50 of the overflow device 40 is positioned at least about 1inch above the central axis of the first aperture 74. More desirably,the bottom wall 50 of the overflow device 40 is positioned at leastabout 1.5 inches above the central axis of the first aperture 74. Evenmore desirably, the bottom wall 50 of the overflow device 40 ispositioned at least about 2 inches above the central axis of the firstaperture 74. Most desirably, the bottom wall 50 of the overflow device40 is positioned at least about 2.5 inches above the central axis of thefirst aperture 74. This means that the central axis of the overflowdevice 40 is positioned about 4.5 inches or less from the top edge 22 ofthe aquarium tank 10. Desirably, the central axis of the overflow device40 is positioned about 4 inches or less from the top edge 22 of theaquarium tank 10.

The first aperture 74 is also positioned below the horizontal member 26of the frame 24. Desirably, the first aperture 74 is positioned at leastabout 1 inch below the horizontal member 26 of the frame 24. Moredesirably, the first aperture 74 is positioned at least about 1.5 inchesbelow the horizontal member 26 of the frame 24. The first aperture 74 isdepicted as a circular opening having a diameter d₁. The diameter d₁ canvary in dimension. The diameter d₁ can be smaller, equal to or be largerthan the diameter d of the enlarged aperture 58. Usually, the diameterd₁ of the first aperture 74 is larger than the diameter of the enlargedaperture 58 because it may have to accommodate an attachment mechanism76. Desirably, the diameter d₁ of the first aperture 74 is about 1 inchor more. More desirably, the diameter d₁ of the first aperture 74 isabout 1.5 inches or more. Even more desirably, the diameter d₁ of thefirst aperture 74 is about 2 inches or more.

Still referring to FIG. 3, the overflow system 38 further includes anattachment mechanism 76 for attaching the enlarged aperture 58, formedin the bottom wall 50 of the overflow device 40, to the inside surface64 of the sidewall 18 of the aquarium tank 10. The attachment mechanism76 can vary in design and construction. The attachment mechanism 76 canbe made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) components which are readilyavailable in most hardware stores. The polyvinyl chloride (PVC)components are easily assembled and can be adhered together by using anadhesive, glue, chemical binder or a mechanical fastener. A majority ofthe attachment mechanism 76 is positioned within the aquarium tank 10. Aportion of the attachment mechanism 76 passes through the first aperture74. The attachment mechanism 76 is depicted as including a first elbow78 having a first end 80 and a second end 82. The first elbow 78 can bea 90° elbow. The first end 80 of the first elbow 78 is secured to acollar 84 which extends downward from the bottom 50 of the overflowdevice 40. By “collar” it is meant a ring-like device or encirclingstructure. The collar 84 is aligned with the enlarged aperture 58. Thisconnection can be a rotatable joint which will allow the overflow device40 to be oriented at different angles relative to the first end 80 ofthe first elbow 78, More will be mentioned about this later.

The second end 82 of the first elbow 78 is secured to a coupler 86having a threaded outer surface 88. The threaded outer surface 88 isdesigned to pass through the first aperture 74 formed in the sidewall18. The coupler 86 is sometimes referred to as a bulkhead fitting. Thecoupler 86 has an enlarged shoulder 90, located approximate a first end92, and an outwardly extending tubular member 94, located at a secondend 96. The enlarged shoulder 90 is designed to abut against the insidesurface 64 of the sidewall 18. A first washer 98 is positioned betweenthe enlarged shoulder 90 and the inside surface 64 of the sidewall 18 toform a fluid tight seal. The first washer 98 should be formed from asoft pliable material, such as rubber. A second optional washer 100 canbe positioned around the threaded outer surface 86 of the coupler 84after it passes through the first aperture 74. The second washer 100,when present, abuts against an outside surface 102 of the sidewall 18.The second washer 100 should also be formed from a soft pliablematerial, such as rubber. A nut 104, see FIG. 4, having an enlargedshoulder 106, is threaded onto the threaded outer surface 88 of thecoupler 86. As the nut 104 is tightened on the threaded outer surface88, the first and second washers, 98 and 100 respectively, will form atight seal against the inside and outside surfaces, 64 and 102respectively, of the sidewall 18 and prevent any fluid (water) 12 fromleaking out. The nut 104 can be formed from the same material as thecoupler 86.

It should be understood that only a portion of the attachment mechanism76 passes through the first aperture 74.

Referring again to FIGS. 3, 5 and 7, the attachment mechanism 76 canoptionally include a second elbow 108. The second elbow 108 can be a 90°elbow. The second elbow 108 has a first end 110 and a second end 112.The first end 110 is secured to the second end 96 of the coupler 76. Anadhesive, glue, chemical binder or mechanical mechanism can be used tohold the two ends, 110 and 96, permanently together. The second end 112of the second elbow 108 is secured to a second coupler 114. The secondcoupler 114 can, in turn, be secured to a first end 116 of a conduit118. The conduit 118 connects the attachment mechanism 76 to a secondtank 120 whereby fluid (water) 12 can be drained from the aquarium tank10 to the second tank 120. The second tank 120 can be a sump tank whichis part of a filtering system for the aquarium tank 10.

The overflow system 38 is designed to safely and efficiently route thefluid (water) 12 from the aquarium tank 10 to the second (sump) tank120. The overflow device 40 is extremely quiet, has a high quantity ofskimming surface to provide aeration, maintains a consistent waterheight in the aquarium tank 10, displaces a very small amount of fluid(water) 12, and has a minimal footprint so as to stay out of sight andout of the way of lighting fixtures. The primary function of theoverflow device 40 is to prevent large debris from getting into thesecond tank 120.

Referring now to FIG. 8, when the overflow device 40 has a length ofabout 8 inches and a width of about 2.5 inches, the plurality of slots56 will be present along about 7.5 inches of each of the first andsecond sidewalls, 46 and 48 respectively, and will be present alongabout 1.75 inches of both the front wall 42 and the back wall 44. Thisequates to about 17.5 linear inches of skimming capacity. In addition,as the fluid (water) line 14 in the aquarium tank 10 rises, more andmore fluid (water) 12 will be able to flow through the plurality ofslots 56 because each tapered slot 56 creates a greater size opening.This means that the plurality of slots 56 can accommodate different flowrates into the aquarium tank 10. This is one of the unique features ofthis overflow system 38.

Referring now to FIGS. 11-15, the overflow device 40 lends itself tomany different installation orientations. Whether the goal is tomanipulate the circulation and direction of fluid (water) 12 flow in theaquarium tank 10, to keep the overflow device 40 out of the way of theaquarium lights, or to be less visible within the aquarium tank 10, thisis all possible. The overflow device 40 can be oriented in severaldifferent positions relative to one of the sidewalls 18. Starting withFIG. 13, the overflow device 40 is positioned with the back wall 44aligned parallel to the inside surface 64 of the sidewall 18 of theaquarium tank 10. The sidewall 18 is the one that includes the firstaperture 74. This is referred to as the “center position” in that theoverflow device 40 is aligned perpendicular to the inside surface 64 ofthe side wall 18. In FIG. 11, the overflow device 40 is positioned withthe back wall 44 aligned 90° to the left of center. In FIG. 12, theoverflow device 40 is positioned with the back wall 44 aligned 45° tothe left of center. In FIG. 14, the overflow device 40 is positionedwith the back wall 44 aligned 45° to the right of center. Lastly, inFIG. 15, the overflow device 40 is positioned with the back wall 44aligned 90° to the right of center.

It should be understood that the overflow device 40 can be positioned atthese angles or any acute angle therebetween. Once a desired orientationof the overflow device 40 has been established relative to the sidewall18, the first end 80 of the first elbow 78 can be securely joined to thecollar 84. This securement can be formed by using an adhesive, glue, achemical binder or a mechanical fastener, Those skilled in the art arewell aware of different attachment methods that can be employed.Alternatively, a snug fit can be employed between the first end 80 ofthe first elbow 78 and the collar 84 since one does not have to worryabout a leak since the first elbow 78 is located within the fluid(water) 12 present in the aquarium tank 10. However, a permanentsecurement is desired for most applications.

METHOD

A method of affixing the overflow system 38 to an aquarium tank 10 isalso a part of this invention. The aquarium tank 10 is capable ofholding a quantity of fluid (water) 12, The aquarium tank 10 has abottom 16, at least one sidewall 18, and an open top 20 surrounded by atop edge 22. The aquarium tank 10 may also include a frame 24 having ahorizontal member 26 which extends downward from the top edge 22 of theaquarium tank 10 along a portion of the at least one sidewall 18. Thehorizontal member 26 also has a bottom edge 28. The aquarium tank 10will further have a lid 30 which closes off the open top 20 to limitevaporation of the fluid (water) 12.

The method includes the steps of positioning an overflow device 40 inthe aquarium tank 10 between the lid 30 and the bottom edge 28 of thehorizontal member 26 of the frame 24. The overflow device 40 has a frontwall 42, a back wall 44, a first sidewall 46 and a second sidewall 48.All four walls 42, 44, 46 and 48 are secured to a bottom wall 50 andextend upward therefrom to create a chamber 52 having an open top 54.The front wall 42, the back wall 44, and the first and second sidewalls,46 and 48 respectively, have a plurality of slots 56 formedtherethrough. A portion of the plurality of slots 56 is disposed belowthe fluid (water) line 14 of the aquarium tank 10 so as to receive fluid(water) 12 from the aquarium tank 10 into the chamber 52. The bottomwall 50 of the overflow device 40 has an enlarged aperture 58 formedtherethrough. An optional top screen 66 is removably attached to theoverflow device 40 and covers the open top 20. The top screen 66 has aplurality of openings 72 formed therethrough.

The method also includes forming a first aperture 74 through thesidewall 18 of the aquarium tank 10. The first aperture 74 is positionedbelow the bottom edge 28 of the horizontal member 26 of the frame 24.The method further includes using an attachment mechanism 76 to attachthe enlarged aperture formed in the bottom wall 50 of the overflowdevice 40 to the first aperture formed in the sidewall 18 of theaquarium tank 10. A portion of the attachment mechanism 76 passesthrough the first aperture 74. Lastly, the method can include using anoptional conduit 118 to connect the attachment mechanism 76 to a secondtank 120 whereby fluid (water) 12 can be drained from the aquarium tank10 to the second tank 120. Other structures, not requiring the conduit118 can also be used.

The method can further include changing the orientation of the overflowdevice 40 relative to the inside surface 64 of the sidewall 18 of theaquarium tank 10. The overflow device 40 can be positioned such that itsback wall 44 is aligned at an acute angle to the sidewall 18 of theaquarium tank 10 which contains the first aperture 74. Desirably, theback wall 44 of the overflow device 40 is aligned parallel to the insidesurface 64 of the sidewall 18 which contains the first aperture 74. Theback wall 44 of the overflow device 40 can also be aligned at an angleof from between 0° to 90° relative to the sidewall 18 which contains thefirst aperture 74. By changing the orientation of the overflow device 40relative to the sidewall 18 which contains the first aperture 74, onecan install a light in the lid 30 of the aquarium tank 10 and positionthe overflow device 40 to be out of the way of this light. Furthermore,by changing the orientation of the overflow device 40 one can alter ormanipulate the circulation and fluid flow in the aquarium tank 10.

The method further includes injection molding the overflow device 40.

While the invention has been described in conjunction with a specificembodiment, it is to be understood that many alternatives, modificationsand variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light ofthe foregoing description. Accordingly, this invention is intended toembrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations which fallwithin the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

1. An overflow system for use with a tank having a side wall, saidoverflow system comprising: a) an overflow device having a front wall, aback wall, a first sidewall and a second sidewall all secured to abottom wall and extending upward therefrom to create a chamber having anopen top, said front wall, back wall and first and second sidewallshaving a plurality of slots formed therethrough, said overflow devicepositioned in said tank with a portion of said plurality of slotsdisposed below the fluid line of said tank so as to receive fluid fromsaid tank into said chamber, and said bottom wall having an enlargedaperture formed therethrough; b) a first aperture formed through saidsidewall of said tank, said first aperture positioned below said bottomwall of said overflow device; and c) attachment means for attaching saidenlarged aperture formed in said bottom wall of said overflow device tosaid first aperture formed in said sidewall of said tank, a portion ofsaid attachment means passing through said first aperture.
 2. Theoverflow system of claim 1 wherein a top screen is removably attached tosaid overflow device and covers said open top, said top screen having aplurality of openings formed therethrough.
 3. The overflow system ofclaim 2 wherein each of said plurality of openings formed in said topscreen has a larger surface area than any one of said plurality ofslots.
 4. The overflow system of claim 1 wherein each of said pluralityof slots has an approximately V-shape profile which narrows from a widedimension located approximate said open top of said overflow device to anarrow dimension located away from said open top of said overflowdevice.
 5. The overflow system of claim 1 wherein each of said pluralityof slots has a height and a width, and said width constantly variesalong said height.
 6. The overflow system of claim 2 wherein saidplurality of slots formed through each of said first and secondsidewalls includes a first set of slots and a second set of slots, eachof said first set of slots has a height h₁ and each of said second setof slots has a height h₂, and said height h₁ is larger than said heighth₂.
 7. The overflow system of claim 6 wherein the number of said firstset of slots exceed the number of said second set of slots formed ineach of said first and second sidewalls.
 8. The overflow system of claim7 wherein in each of said first and second sidewalls, said second set ofslots are positioned closer to said back wall and said first set ofslots are positioned closer to said front wall, and each of saidplurality of slots formed in said front wall has a height h₁ and each ofsaid plurality of slots formed in said back wall have a height h₂. 9.The overflow system of claim wherein a conduit connects said attachmentmeans to a second tank whereby fluid can be drained to said second tank,and said enlarged aperture formed in said bottom wall is positionedadjacent to said back wall.
 10. An overflow system for use with anaquarium tank having a bottom, at least one sidewall, an open topsurrounded by a top edge, a frame including a horizontal member whichextends downward from said top edge along a portion of said at least onesidewall and has a bottom edge, and a lid which closes off said open topof said aquarium tank, said overflow system comprising: a) an overflowdevice having a front wall, a back wall, a first sidewall and a secondsidewall all secured to a bottom wall and extending upward therefrom tocreate a chamber having an open top, said front wall, back wall andfirst and second sidewalls having a plurality of slots formedtherethrough, said overflow device positioned in said aquarium tankbetween said lid and said bottom edge of said frame, a portion of saidplurality of slots disposed below the water line of said aquarium tankso as to receive water from said aquarium tank into said chamber, andsaid bottom wall having an enlarged aperture formed therethrough; b) atop screen removably attached to said overflow device which covers saidopen top, said top screen having a plurality of openings formedtherethrough; c) a first aperture formed through said sidewall of saidaquarium tank, said first aperture positioned below said bottom wall ofsaid overflow device; and d) attachment means for attaching saidenlarged aperture formed in said bottom wall of said overflow device tosaid first aperture formed in said sidewall of said aquarium tank, aportion of said attachment means passing through said first aperture.11. The overflow system of claim 10 wherein a conduit connects saidattachment means to a second tank whereby fluid can be drained to saidsecond tank, and said enlarged aperture formed in said bottom wall ispositioned adjacent to said back wall.
 12. The overflow system of claim10 wherein a majority of said attachment means is positioned within saidaquarium tank.
 13. The overflow system of claim 10 wherein said bottomwall of said overflow device is positioned at least 1 inch above saidfirst aperture.
 14. The overflow system of claim 10 wherein at least oneof said plurality of openings formed through said top screen has asmaller surface area than at least one other of said plurality ofopenings formed in said top screen.
 15. The overflow system of claim 10wherein all of said plurality of openings formed through said top screenare not of the same size.
 16. A method of affixing an overflow system toan aquarium tank, said aquarium tank capable of holding a quantity ofwater and having a bottom, at least one sidewall, an open top surroundedby a top edge, a frame including a horizontal member which extendsdownward from said top edge along a portion of said at least onesidewall and has a bottom edge, and a lid which closes off said open topof said aquarium tank, said method comprising the steps of: a)positioning an overflow device in said aquarium tank between said lidand said bottom edge of said horizontal member, said overflow devicehaving a front wall, a back wall, a first sidewall and a second sidewallall secured to a bottom wall and extending upward therefrom to create achamber having an open top, said front wall, back wall and said firstand second sidewalls having a plurality of slots formed therethrough, aportion of said plurality of slots disposed below the water line of saidaquarium tank so as to receive water from said aquarium tank into saidchamber, and said bottom wall having an enlarged aperture formedtherethrough; b) forming a first aperture through said sidewall of saidaquarium tank, said first aperture positioned below said bottom edge ofsaid horizontal member; c) using an attachment mechanism to attach saidenlarged aperture formed in said bottom wall of said overflow device tosaid first aperture formed in said sidewall of said aquarium tank, aportion of said attachment mechanism passing through said firstaperture.
 17. The method of affixing an overflow system to an aquariumtank of claim 16 further comprising changing the orientation of saidoverflow device so that said back wall of said overflow device isaligned at an acute angle to said sidewall of said aquarium tank whichcontains said first aperture.
 18. The method of affixing an overflowsystem to an aquarium tank of claim 18 further comprising installing alight in said lid and positioning said overflow device out of the way ofsaid light.
 19. The method of affixing an overflow system to an aquariumtank of claim 16 further comprising removably attaching a top screen tosaid overflow device which covers said open top, said top screen havinga plurality of openings formed therethrough.
 20. The method of affixingan overflow system to an aquarium tank of claim 16 further comprisingusing a conduit to connect said attachment mechanism to a second tankwhereby water can be drained from said aquarium tank to said secondtank.